Unwrapping Advent: Through Voices of Wisdom Dec. 25
Wednesday, December 25, 2024
Christmas Day
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby,
keeping watch over their flocks at night.
9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them,
and they were terrified.
10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news
that will cause great joy for all the people.
11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you;
he is the Messiah, the Lord.
12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths
and lying in a manger.”
Luke 2:8-12, NIV
Born to You
One of the most meaningful memories etched in my heart and mind is the Christmas morning when I was six years old. I eagerly ran to the Christmas tree, searching for gifts with my name on them. To my surprise, there were none.
I looked over at my parents and saw the tears rolling down my mother’s face. She realized in that moment that there were no gifts under the tree for me. I did not seem to mind; I was not angry. I did not demand answers to where my gifts were. My siblings knew something was awry and invited me to play with their toys, no questions asked.
This Christmas memory has remained woven into the very fabric of my being. I remember everything about this day. Most importantly, I recall how even at an early age, I learned a profound lesson about finding joy in all things and what it means to cultivate empathy in my life.
I cannot imagine what was going on in my parents’ world at that time, but I am sure stress and chaos were what prevented my mom from buying a single gift for me. When I became an adult, I asked her if she could share what happened that Christmas, but she had no words to articulate what was clearly a painful time for her.
You will be happy to know, I did not go without. My grandparents were on their way to our house bringing gifts for us all. At my mother’s request, my paternal grandparents stopped by the local Woolworths to pick up extra toys for me. It was a memorable Christmas and a reminder that there is so much more to the season than just gifts.
Christmas can often be a chaotic time for parents. The pressures of creating a perfect holiday season can sometimes overshadow the true meaning of the season. My childhood experience reminds us that amidst the hustle and bustle, the essence of Christmas is not found in the gifts under the tree, but in the love and compassion we share with one another.
Just as my mother’s tears sparked empathy, the birth of Christ teaches us about the ultimate gift of love and sacrifice. Jesus came into the world not with grand fanfare, but in a humble manger, bringing a message of hope, peace, joy, and love to the world. His birth is a reminder that the greatest gifts are not material, but the love and grace we extend to others.
This Christmas Day, let us take a moment to pause and reflect on the meaning of the season. In the midst of everything, let us remember to show empathy and kindness to those around us. Whether it is a smile, a kind word, or a simple act of service, these small gestures can make a big difference in finding joy in all things.
As we celebrate this season, let us also celebrate all Jesus brings into our lives. May we find peace in knowing that the greatest gift has already been given to us – the gift of the Savior.
Reflect: How has God called you to a deeper hope, peace, joy, and love through your journey to the manger during this season?
Pray: Gracious God, Thank you for your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to remember the gift Christmas brings amidst the busyness of the season. Teach us to show empathy and love to those around us, just as you’ve shown to us. May we find joy in your Holy presence and share that joy with others. In the name of the One who loves us all, Jesus the Christ. Amen.
Pastor Kellie Sanford
Associate Pastor
Prosper United Methodist Church